A few days following hints at a fresh partnership with Roc Marciano, the Grammy-nominated TDEMC announced the news. Ab-Soul touched the stage at the fifth and concluding Dreamville Fest - and DIwida.News | spotted him just seconds before he stepped onto the stage.
“I feel slightly miffed since [J.] Cole and I are great buddies, and I am quite skilled at rapping—if not the greatest ever,” he joked. “How come this is my debut appearance on the roster? It’s puzzling! They truly kept the best for the finale!”
Although it’s Ab's inaugural performance at the North Carolina festival, he might have more chances to return to Raleigh in the future. press conference on Thursday (April 3), the organizers of the Raleigh event stunned attendees by announcing that Dreamville Fest would be making a comeback with a fresh twist down the line. This last hurrah—for the time being—holds particular significance for Ab, noting he "grew up alongside many prominent figures from Dreamville."
These are truly my crew; Bas joined me on my inaugural headline tour, which is when I got acquainted with Earthgang, JID, Cozz, and everyone else," he stated. "Their talent can’t be questioned. They’re genuine MCs and authentic artists. Ari [Lennox] puts on an incredible performance too. Dreamville Fest must feel like a lifelong aspiration realized for both Cole and countless individuals around here. It’s an honour to have been invited today.
Last year, Ab released his sixth studio album. Soul Burger , a tribute album for his late best friend Doeburger, who died in 2021. Featuring collaborations with artists such as Doechii, Ty Dolla $IGN, and Lupe Fiasco, Soul Burger Also includes Doeburger listed as a posthumous writer for all tracks.
In the caption of an Instagram post hinting at his upcoming collab with Roc Marciano and celebrating Doeburger’s birthday (April 1st), Ab sent out a special shoutout to Cole, expressing gratitude towards the “Middle Child” rapper for offering his viewpoint. He penned, "Appreciate your insights Cole; they were very necessary." This message also elaborated on what the new track signifies for him. "I must make sure everyone understands the profound effect my brother had on me as well as countless others. My intention wasn’t just about gaining more followers or making money; instead, it was all about paying tribute to someone who truly stood apart—undeniably one-of-a-kind."
Concluding his post, Ab-Soul stated: "Soul Burger: The Odyssey… Stay tuned." Although the specifics remain ambiguous, Ab assures confirmation soon. DIwida.News | This new project and his 2022 LP are "two separate entities."
Soul Burger is a persona; it merges elements of myself with those of Doeburger," he clarifies. "As for The Odyssey, well, it truly lives up to its name—it’s among the most significant works I’ve created, and I’m incredibly enthusiastic about it. This piece serves as therapy—liberating even—and stands as an ongoing tribute to my brother.
As Ab-Soul gears up for new tunes and a gig at Wiz Khalifa's upcoming 420 on the Rocks concert in 2025, he shows no indications of easing off his momentum.
- J. Cole's Dreamville Fest Won't Be Cancelled, Set to Reappear With a Fresh Twist